The big picture: A recent Flex survey reveals the app-based economy is now deeply integrated into American economic life and politically resilient, a significant shift over three years.

Why it matters: This signals a permanent fixture in the labor landscape, impacting workforce planning, talent sourcing strategies, and regulatory considerations for businesses.

Between the lines:

• The "2026 Worker and Consumer Survey" by Flex highlights this trend.
• The app-based economy's integration has deepened significantly in three years.
• It is now considered "part of daily life" for many Americans.

Staffing & HR impact: Staffing firms must adapt talent acquisition models to leverage and manage contingent app-based workers effectively, while HR leaders face evolving compliance challenges around worker classification and benefits.

The bottom line: The gig economy's foundational role in the U.S. workforce is undeniable and here to stay.